There is no shortage of powerhouse Syrahs to be found in these pages, but this particular wine stands out for its admirable mix of polish and strength. It is indelibly varietal with deep berry-like fruit and rich oak to spare, and its wonderfully supple, almost velvety feel lends it an inviting sense of immediacy despite a bit of last minute heat in the finish. It is a wine with plenty of room for improvement, and a few years in the cellar will make a good thing even better.

Bright ruby-red. Reticent but pure aromas of roasted plum and flowers. Opulent, dense and sweet, with rich, broad red berry and spice cake flavors, along with a suggestion of maple syrup. More creamy and full-blown than the basic bottling. Finishes sweet, fat and persistent, with dusty tannins.

Rating for United States-California-Central Coast: 92 (slightly better than average year)<br/><br/>Drinkability: young, aging quickly, could be good now<br/>